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Matchbox - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

A matchbox is a small cardboard box designed to hold matches. It typically has a rough strip on the side for striking matches to light them. Matchboxes are commonly used for starting fires or lighting candles.

matchbox

/ˈmætʃˌbɑks/ /ˈmætʃˌbɒks/

Definition:

A small cardboard box containing matches for lighting fires or cigarettes.

Synonyms:

match container, match holder, tinderbox

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

lighter, firestarter

Common Collocations:

strike a match, open the matchbox, carry a matchbox

Derivatives:

matchboxes, matchbox-sized

Usage Tips:

Use "matchbox" to refer to the container, not the matches inside it.

Common Phrases:

strike a match, light a fire, keep in a matchbox

Etymology:

Derived from "match" (combustible stick) + "box" (container), first recorded in the 19th century.

Examples:

  • 1. She found an old matchbox in the drawer.
  • 2. He lit the candle with a match from the matchbox.
  • 3. The tiny car was no bigger than a matchbox.
  • 4. Keep the matches dry inside the matchbox.

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